HPAE statement on HRH’s “stabilization” plan for Heights University Hospital
EMERSON—”Hudson Regional Health (HRH), which owns Heights University Hospital, publicly states it is ‘stabilizing’ the health system — but its actions paint a very different picture. The hospital has announced it is reducing critical services available to the community and laying off staff this week.
“Less than six months ago HRH committed, in bankruptcy court, to having sufficient funds to acquire and successfully operate the then-bankrupt CarePoint system, including Christ Hospital, now Heights University Hospital, Bayonne Medical Center and Hoboken University Hospital. HRH promised financial stability and a thriving health system.
“HRH assured both the Department of Health and the employees’ unions that it had the funds, resources, and commitment necessary to turn the system around. We call on state officials and regulators to act now: hold HRH accountable, demand full transparency, and ensure a thorough public review before any major changes are implemented. The health and well-being of our community is at stake.
“Despite just recently receiving a $2 million cash infusion from the State to support vital services, HRH has reportedly submitted a preliminary proposal — as of October 13 — to the Jersey City Planning Board to redevelop the hospital site into luxury condos.
“HRH’s plan to convert hospital land into luxury condos raises serious doubts about their true intentions and suggests they are being disingenuous about any real commitment to continue operating Heights University Hospital.
“HRH also committed to the Judge and to the unions that represent their employees that they would replenish the Paid Time Off (PTO) they had stolen from PTO banks and make a million dollars in delinquent employer contributions to HPAE members’ 401k retirement plans. HPAE is considering legal action to compel HRH to comply with the court’s incremental 401(k) payment order, which HRH has failed to honor.”
~ HPAE President Debbie White, RN.
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HPAE is the largest union of registered nurses and health care professionals in New Jersey. Since its founding by Englewood Hospital nurses in 1974, HPAE has expanded across the state and into Southeastern Pennsylvania representing more than 15,000 nurses, social workers, therapists, technicians, medical researchers, and other health care professionals in hospitals, nursing homes, home care agencies, blood banks, and university research facilities. HPAE is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, AFL-CIO.
For more information, contact Michael O. Allen at (646) 436-7556; [email protected]